Dealing With Chronic Shoulder Pain
By Stephen R. Farris
Have you ever been working around the house and all of a sudden, a sharp pain hits your shoulder? You may just shrug it off, move your shoulder a few times to see if it goes away. It might, but over the course of several days, weeks or months it begins to happen more frequently.
It could be a sign of chronic shoulder pain. The only way to really find out is to visit your local physician or chiropractor to let them access your situation.
Bursitis
There are several forms of chronic shoulder pain; for instance, it could be caused by bursitis. Bursitis usually leaves you feeling a dull, achy pain in the joint. There could also be swelling and the pain could increase with movement of the shoulder. The best way to treat bursitis is to get some rest, and/or do some light stretching.
Tendinitis
This is caused when the tendon gets inflamed. It's most common in the rotator cuff and you've probably heard about it if you're into sports. But the condition can happen to ordinary people, not just baseball and football players. In extreme instances, surgery may be required, but under normal circumstances the best treatment for tendinitis is rest, cutting back on activities, physical therapy (talk with your local chiropractor to see how they can help bring relief), and as a last resort, you might try taking anti-inflammatory medication.
Tear in the Tendon
A tear in the tendon can be the result of overusing your shoulder. For instance, repetitive use in the form of extending the arm overhead during work throughout your shift, or in a windmill fashion, or even lifting and carrying things. Regardless, the tear is most likely to happen in the rotator cuff or bicep. Usually rest (limiting use of the shoulder), applying ice treatments, taking anti-inflammatory medications, and seeking help from a chiropractor or physical therapist can help bring relief and time to heal.
Other causes of chronic shoulder pain could be from an injury, nerve damage or pinching, arthritis (he's always around somewhere), and tumors.
You can find many stretching videos online that may help with relieving shoulder pain. But as stated earlier, go and visit with your local chiropractor to hear any tips and/or suggestions they have to offer so you can return to the active lifestyle you're used to.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Pasadena, Tex.